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Extraordinary goalgetter Erling Haaland will get an opportunity in his first major tournament next summer, thanks to his efforts with Norway to the World Cup.

Additionally, the 25-year-old Manchester City striker did it in sensational style, scoring 16 goals in eight World Cup qualifiers - finding the back of the net consistently in all those encounters.

This establishes him as the top scorer in 2026 World Cup preliminary stage in all continents.

And his country's 4-1 win versus Italy on Sunday, where Haaland scored twice, means they will be playing in next summer's World Cup in North America.

The striker commented following the match: "I'm pleased, but mostly relieved. There's significant pressure and factors, and I sense it. But it's fun."

It will be just their fourth World Cup, and their initial international competition since the 2000 Euros.

The Crucial Role Was Haaland's Contribution?

His goal tally for Norway is nothing short of phenomenal.

He has scored 55 goals in 48 matches for his country.

Furthermore he is only the sixth player ever, and the first in 53 years, to register 50 finishes in under 50 international games.

Norway's previous highest scorer was Jorgen Juve with 33 goals, who kept that distinction for nine decades.

During these qualifying matches he scored 16 goals - in eight encounters - plus two goal contributions.

That is double the scoring total any competitor has scored in Europe.

He remains the highest scorer in these qualifiers in any continent, even in regions where national sides participate twice the number of encounters.

Over a year has elapsed since Haaland most recently didn't net in a international appearance.

Collective Performance Beyond Haaland

But it is not solely about one player.

Skipper Martin Odegaard, 26, has more assists than anyone else in European qualifying - seven setups.

The Arsenal midfielder has played 67 times for Norway since making his debut at the young age of 15.

"Merge Haaland's accomplishments with the reality that in this era we also have Martin Odegaard," said a Norwegian journalist.

Norway is a nation of five million people and we feature both the premier attacker and I'd propose the best playmaker, absolutely including the best playmakers, in the Premier League.

Historical Relevance of Successful Qualification

For the premier occasion in a generation Norway fans will experience the joy of supporting their team at an international tournament.

The Scandinavian country participated in the World Cups in 1938, 1994 and 1998, and the 2000 Euros.

Erling's dad, Alf Inge, participated in the 1994 tournament.

The striker has mentioned before exceeding his dad represented a significant personal target for him.

"Norway will never win the World Cup," the striker mentioned to a major publication in recent months.

Dodging Historical Omission

Haaland's qualification for the upcoming World Cup with Norway ensures he escapes his addition to the list of great players who never featured in one.

Three golden ball recipients didn't succeed to participate in the global tournament.

The Liberian legend, who won trophies with Monaco, PSG, AC Milan and Chelsea, played for Liberia - who haven't qualified for a World Cup.

Legendary Red Devils attacker George Best, viewed by plenty as one of football's greatest players, was a Northern Irish representative during the 1960s and 70s when they failed to qualify.

Los Blancos icon Alfredo di Stefano featured for three national teams - Colombia, Spain and Argentina - but didn't make it to a World Cup with any national team.